60 years of Chinese soldiers "uniform temptation"
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In the early days of the revolutionary war, due to limited resources and harsh conditions, the military uniforms of the People's Army were simple in design and limited in variety, focusing only on basic functionality. After the founding of the People’s Republic of China, with economic improvements and the growing needs of the armed forces, the PLA underwent more than ten rounds of uniform reforms. These changes marked a significant step in modernizing and standardizing military equipment. Over decades, the PLA's uniforms have evolved significantly, achieving a high level of standardization, variety, and functional integration. Today, the overall quality of the uniforms is considered among the best in the world.
The 50-style uniforms were the first standardized set of military attire for the PLA after its establishment. They were introduced in 1950 and represented a major shift from previous decentralized procurement to centralized state supply. The Central Military Commission aimed to unify the appearance of the entire army to improve coordination and command efficiency. This initiative was led by key leaders such as Mao Zedong, Liu Shaoqi, Zhu De, and Zhou Enlai, who personally approved the design.
The 50-style uniforms included different versions for the army, navy, air force, and both male and female soldiers. Each service had distinct colors and designs. For example, the navy adopted a style influenced by both pre-revolutionary Chinese naval uniforms and those of friendly nations, while the air force followed a similar pattern to the army but with different hues. The navy also developed its own unique system, separate from the other branches.
One notable feature of the 50-style uniforms was the introduction of the "August 1" emblem, symbolizing the founding of the People's Liberation Army. Female soldiers wore elegant suits inspired by Soviet styles, reflecting the strong cultural influence of the USSR at the time. The design incorporated elements like berets and pullovers, which were popular in Soviet military fashion.
As the uniforms were implemented, they were gradually refined based on practical needs. Adjustments included changes to headgear, the addition of new clothing items, and modifications to the overall design. By 1951, the navy and air force adopted the same emblem as the army, reinforcing a sense of unity across all branches.
The 50-style uniforms not only improved the image of the PLA but also played a crucial role in establishing a professional and disciplined military force. Their impact on the development of the armed forces cannot be overstated, marking a turning point in the modernization of China's military.